Define family restaurant?

Question

does it mean family owned or provides children's menu and services?

Answer 1

It could mean family owned but it's more likely that if this is what they mean it will be more clear in the context - menu or advertising often specifically says "family owned" or "proudly owned and operated by the Smith family since 19xx" or similar.

Usually, 'family restaurant' refers to one where children are welcome. Generally, you'll find a casual sit-down dining atmosphere and moderate prices. You usually don't need to ask for high chairs or booster seats, they're prepared. The place mats often double as coloring sheets, or maybe they'll provide a separate coloring/activity sheet along with crayons. The menu usually features comfort food or home-style food, not too exotic, and a children's menu featuring smaller portions, finger foods, things kids like (and lots of times also a seniors menu with smaller portions and lower prices). Many don't serve alcohol (or maybe just bottled beer if any). Some large chains considered family restaurants include Denny's, Shari's, Perkin's, Howard Johnson's, and IHOP, and of course there are many independent family restaurants.

Answer 2

I suppose "family restaurant" could just mean the restaurant is family owned.

My theory is a seafood restaurant has seafood, a steakhouse has steak, a chinese restaurant has chinese food, and so on.

I say a "family restaurant" has families in it.  That would mean it has an atmosphere accepting of families (the children's menus, high chairs, casual dining, etc.)

I could be wrong, but it makes sense to me.  :)

Answer 3

I think of a family restaurant as one where the entire family would go. Hopefully the kids will behave at the restaurant.

Answer 4

It could be taken either way. It depends on how it's used within the sentence.

Answer 5

i've heard the term used for both definitions, although either way I would assume children were welcome.

Answer 6

It could means that many family members works there, cooking is done with fresh food, and served like family type portions.

Answer 7

Usually it means it is family friendly.  They usually have kid menu's available, they probably offer the kids crayons and color sheets, or something to occupy their time while waiting for the food.

I'm sure it could be use in either context.  I believe when people think family ran, usually "family-owned" is mentioned some where in advertisements, on menu's or even on the sign.

I worked at a "family" Italian restaurant and we made sure the kids were happy by tossing pizza's and spinning pans.  We also gave kids their own ball of dough to play with.  We had crayons and paper available, too.  Parents just loved this establishment.